When it comes to primetime television, the number of black faces on TV is at an embarrassing minimum. A look at the TV lineups of ABC, CBS, NBC and Fox clearly showcases a plethora of comedies and dramas led by predominately white casts. While this isn’t a bad thing, it isn’t a good thing either.
TV has been around for years and it isn’t going away anytime soon. In the decades that society has evolved, I believe that more primetime shows should be built around minorities – it is 2008.
Shows like Boston Legal, Two and a Half Men, Law and Order and ER continue to feature whites in leading roles with blacks as supporting characters or guest stars.
While TV has undoubtedly come a long way since it hit mainstream in the early ’50s, there is still a long way to go. The number of black shows on primetime television is at an all time low.
However this wasn’t always the case. Back in the ’70s when sitcoms dominated primetime, blacks could be found in shows such as Good Times, The Jeffersons, Sanford & Sons and The Flip Wilson Show. The ’80s debut of Diff’rent Strokes, as well as the rating powerhouse – The Cosby Show.
In the ’90s, blacks could be seen on Family Matters, Hanging with Mr. Cooper, Martin and Living Single. However, now in 2008, there is hardly any programming featuring a Black cast.
Incorporating more solid black oriented shows, can promote diversity and change.